Swimming Pools...

So do those individuals have to pay a fine for not having a fence? Or does someone have to turn them in first and then they will be fined? How much is the fine? My guess is cheaper than putting up a fence....

Signed Anonymous


Dear Anonymous,

I'm sure Chief Cushman could answer these questions better than I can, but I'll give it a go.

Remember, it's the depth of the water, not the height of the pool. We actually checked a couple pools and were surprised to find that the water level was less than 24". We have heard that there are larger pools in city limits that don't meet ordinance requirements and the GCPD will follow up in those situations as they find out about them.

If a nuisance violation is observed or a complaint is received and verified the GCPD would contact the individual in person or by letter asking the individual to correct the problem within a certain time period. We also try to work with individuals, especially in situations with extenuating circumstances. If the violation is not corrected within the time period a ticket could and probably would be issued, but compliance is always our main goal.

According to our ordinance, fines can range from $75.00 up to $750.00 for any one offense and multiple citations can be issued for a single violation if problem is not remedied in a timely manner. The amount of the fine is determined during court proceedings.

If you have any further questions concerning violations or enforcement, please contact the GCPD at 784-8666.

Mayor Dan



Please correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't Gibson City have an ordinance that states if a person has a body of water (i.e. pool, pond, etc.) at their property that has more than 2 feet of water they need to have a fence around that pool or pond? I have seen many pools around town lately that have no fencing and are 3-4 feet deep.

Signed Anonymous.


Dear Anonymous,

You are 99% correct. The only difference is that it only covers a body of water "which is used primarily for the purpose of swimming". The following ordinance was adopted a couple years ago because the Council was concerned with the safety of our community, especially the safety of our young children.

City of Gibson Revised Code Article V, Section 40-5-5, Paragraph H states: "Swimming pools, in all residential districts shall be located not less than twenty feet from any principal building on an adjacent lot and the pool or yard shall be fenced to a height of not less than five feet with the type and location of the fence approved by the City Superintendent. "Swimming pool" within the meaning of this sub paragraph, shall be a depression in the ground, either temporary or permanent, or a container of water either temporary or permanent and either above or below ground in which water of more than twenty-four inches is contained and which is used primarily for the purpose of swimming. (Ord. No. 06-15; 04-24-06)

Basically, No swimming pool should be closer than 20' to any neighbors home and the water in the pool should not contain more than 24" (depth) of water unless it is totally enclosed by at least a 5' fence. Hope this helps.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call the GCPD at 784-8666.

Mayor Dan